Frequently Asked Questions
highly specialized type of dental care
You have been referred to an Endodontist, a dentist who specializes in endodontic (root canal) therapy. Endodontics is a highly specialized type of dental care developed to save teeth. We, at Dothan Endodontics, are dedicated to providing you the highest quality of endodontic care. The latest proven clinical techniques are used with skill and precision. We understand that you may be apprehensive about your endodontic treatment. We will make every effort to ensure that your visit is as comfortable as possible and becomes a good dental experience. We seek to create an atmosphere of understanding, open communications and mutual respect. Please do not hesitate to ask questions or offer suggestions.
Dr. Lee Van Carroll and the staff of Dothan Endodontics appreciate the trust you have placed in us by selecting our office for your diagnostic and endodontic needs. Again, welcome.
WHAT IS ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
Endodontics, sometimes referred to as root canal therapy, is the removal of the soft center or nerve tissue from the inside of the tooth. This tissue, called the pulp, can become diseased, thereby causing pain and/or infection. The cure for such a pulp problem follows three basic steps:
- 1. First, the pulp is entered through a small opening made in the chewing surface of the tooth.
- 2. Then, the pulp is removed and the entire root canal space is cleaned, shaped and sterilized.
- 3. Finally, the root canal is sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha.
ARE ADDITIONAL X-RAYS NEEDED?
Usually at least three or four x-rays are required during treatment to ensure that every step is performed correctly. The final x-ray taken will be sent to your referring dentist.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Root canal therapy is usually done in one visit depending on the complexity of the case. Some cases may require two visits. Each visit generally lasts between 1 – 1 ½ hours.
RETURNING TO YOUR DENTIST
When root canal therapy is complete, you must return to your dentist for the permanent restoration of your tooth. Your dentist will decide what type of restoration is required. Usually, a cap or crown is required to protect the remaining tooth structure. At times, all that is needed after root canal therapy is a small filling.
ARE MY TEETH WORTH SAVING?
Yes! The only real alternative to having root canal therapy is to have the tooth extracted. To have a tooth extracted without replacement can result in a loss of chewing ability and other teeth adjacent to the missing tooth might drift changing your “bite”. A false tooth to replace the missing tooth is weaker than a natural tooth. Adjacent teeth may be affected if a bridge is constructed, and a bridge is more difficult to keep clean than natural teeth. In addition, a replacement bridge would probably cost more than endodontic treatment and a permanent restoration.
ARE ROOT CANALS SUCCESSFUL?
We will recommend treatment only when we believe it will be successful. More than 95% of routine cases respond to the treatment methods used in this office. Due to complications, some teeth pose a greater than normal chance of not responding to treatment, even though endodontic therapy is still required. These cases may require more than one procedure. In a few cases, no amount of treatment will produce satisfactory results. We can usually inform you before treatment if your tooth is of the high risk type.
INSURANCE
Dental Insurance Plans We Work With:
- Delta Dental
- Southland
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama
Other Options:
CareFund: Apply online www.getcarefund.com or call 844-254-9011.
CareCredit: We do accept CareCredit.
Payment Is Due At The Time of Service
As a courtesy, we will file your insurance claim. Please keep us informed of any changes to your insurance. Please call our office if you have questions at 334-793-7687.
Contact Our Office
220 Healthwest Dr., Ste 1
Dothan, AL 36303
(334) 793 - 7687
Call: 334.793.7687
Fax: 334.793.0067
Working Hours
Monday-Thursday 6am-2:30pm
Address:
220-1 Healthwest Drive
Dothan, AL 36303